Editor:

“All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.”
– Walt Disney

On Feb. 4, 1982, we had a dream of a new animal shelter. Nearly five years later, on Oct. 11, 1986, the new animal shelter was dedicated.

Our shelter support continued over the years. The death of Hazel Burke in 1998 resulted in a bequest to the Friends of the Rhinelander Animal Shelter (FRAS) for major improvements at the shelter. Under our guidance, new furnaces, an addition, entrance, new roofs and many other improvements were made. Our close affiliation with the city shelter ended at that time, and our focus shifted to outreach programs.

When the Rhinelander Area Food Pantry opened in 2005, we assumed full responsibility for providing and stocking pet food and supplies. The pet food pantry is a big success.

In 2011, FRAS purchased pet food and supplies in the amount of $7,473.71. This figure doesn’t include the cost of the donated food and supplies. Thanks to all who donate funds, food, miscellaneous items, aluminum cans, Purina weight circles and services. You help keep the program going.

So much for the past…the future is filled with hope and a lot of change. The Oneida County Humane Society takeover of the animal shelter, and the positive changes already taking place are heart warming. The potential of the shelter is finally being realized. The heart of any shelter it its policies and programs.

The bottom line is the animals and what we can do for them. They cannot speak or choose where they end up, so we must be their advocates. Thanks to all involved in this transition. The best is yet to come! Special recognition goes to Karla Ortman who has put her heart and soul into this mission, and persevered, one step at a time. She had a dream and the courage to pursue it. God bless all of you, and keep up the good work. The “furry angels” need all the help they can get.
Marilyn Tober, Rhinelander
Treasurer, F.R.A.S.